As Uganda advances toward a cleaner, low-carbon future, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is emerging as a practical transitional fuel that connects the country’s current energy needs with its long-term sustainability ambitions.
Tackling Energy Poverty and Environmental Strain
Nearly 90 percent of Uganda’s energy consumption still comes from solid biomass such as wood and charcoal. This dependence drives deforestation, worsens both indoor and outdoor air pollution, and increases health risks, particularly for women and children. Transitioning to cleaner fuels like LPG presents a viable way to address these issues while supporting the country’s goals for universal modern energy access by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2065.
Rising Production and Building Domestic Capacity
With the Kingfisher and Tilenga oil projects expected to produce around 20,000 and 80,000 tonnes of LPG annually, Uganda’s total annual output will exceed 200,000 tonnes once full oil operations commence. This far surpasses the current domestic demand of about 25,000 tonnes, creating an opportunity for market expansion.
Infrastructure investments are already underway to support this growth. The planned LPG storage facility and cylinder manufacturing plant in Luzira, set for completion by 2026, will supply up to 500,000 cylinders annually for Uganda and the wider East African Community. Partnerships such as the agreement between UNOC and Vivo Energy Uganda will further strengthen LPG storage, distribution and accessibility.
Policy and Market Shifts for Wider Adoption
While supply is increasing, the pace of LPG adoption, currently around 5 percent nationwide, will depend on targeted policy measures, market incentives and public awareness. Recent tax adjustments, improved distribution networks and efforts to reduce import reliance are steps in the right direction. However, challenges such as affordability, access in rural areas and cultural habits will require coordinated action.
Industry stakeholders, policymakers and communities need to view LPG not only as an energy product but as a catalyst for environmental preservation, public health improvement and economic resilience. The combination of infrastructure readiness, policy alignment and social behaviour change will determine how quickly Uganda can shift toward cleaner fuels.
Looking Ahead
Uganda’s growing LPG capacity offers a strategic advantage in the clean energy transition. If supported by smart policy, inclusive planning and sustained public engagement, LPG can play a defining role in reducing biomass reliance and unlocking wider socio-economic benefits. By continuing to track progress, analyse trends and facilitate dialogue across the energy ecosystem, the sector can ensure that this opportunity delivers lasting impact.
